Authorities have launched a new incentive programme aimed at overseas Filipino workers, many of whom live in the Middle East, to encourage them to bring foreign visitors to the country

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. would reportedly be open to discussing Philippines rejoining of the International Criminal Court; His administration will “study it carefully,” following UN calls to reverse the 2019 withdrawal amid human rights concerns

On 127th Independence Day, Marcos Jr. honored the 1898 heroes who freed the Philippines from Spanish rule; He called for accountability and unity, linking today’s struggles, corruption, fake news to the fight for freedom that shaped the nation’s identity

At the ASEAN-GCC-China Forum in Kuala Lumpur, President Marcos urged ASEAN and China to expedite a binding Code of Conduct for the South China Sea; he stressed its importance for maritime security, stability, and preventing conflict in disputed waters

The Kanlaon volcano erupted on May 13, spewing a 4,5 km-high ash plume and affecting nearby villages; Authorities raised alert level 3, enforced a 6 km radius evacuation zone, and warned of possible further eruptions though no casualties were reported